Wedge Hill Group Camp

Wedge Hill Group Camp, situated within the expansive and naturally beautiful William O'Brien State Park in Scandia, Minnesota, offers a unique opportunity for larger gatherings to experience the outdoors together. As a designated group camping area, it caters to organizations, families, and friends looking for a collective outdoor adventure. Located within one of Minnesota’s cherished state parks, Wedge Hill Group Camp provides access to the diverse landscapes and recreational opportunities that William O'Brien State Park is known for, allowing groups to create shared memories surrounded by nature.

It's important for prospective campers, especially those new to group camping or this specific location, to understand the particular characteristics of Wedge Hill Group Camp. Unlike individual campsites that prioritize solitude, group camps are designed to accommodate a higher capacity of people, fostering a communal atmosphere. While the natural surroundings of William O'Brien State Park are undeniably appealing, the experience at a group camp can differ significantly from a more private individual site. Being prepared for a more social camping environment, and understanding the park's specific rules and expectations, will help ensure a positive and enjoyable outing for your entire group at Wedge Hill.

Wedge Hill Group Camp is located at 66CH+J3, Scandia, MN 55047, USA, which places it within the larger William O'Brien State Park. This location is particularly advantageous for residents throughout Minnesota, especially those in the Minneapolis/St. Paul metropolitan area. The journey to Scandia is manageable, making it a convenient destination for group outings that don't require extensive travel. This ease of access allows groups to maximize their time enjoying the park's amenities and activities rather than spending hours on the road, which is a significant benefit for organizing group events where travel logistics can be complex.

Being part of William O'Brien State Park means that campers at Wedge Hill Group Camp have direct access to the park's extensive trail system and other natural features. The group camp itself is strategically positioned within the park, allowing for exploration of the beautiful natural surroundings. While specific details about the immediate surroundings of the group camp (e.g., how far it is from showers, visitor center) should be confirmed with the park, its location within a well-established state park generally implies a certain level of infrastructure and accessibility to key park features. Furthermore, the proximity to towns like Stillwater and Taylors Falls offers convenient access to additional supplies, dining options, and unique local attractions, providing a blend of wilderness experience with nearby conveniences that can be particularly useful for larger groups.

As a group camp within William O'Brien State Park, Wedge Hill Group Camp provides certain facilities designed to accommodate larger gatherings.

• Capacity for Groups: Wedge Hill Group Camp is designed to host a significant number of people, with a reported capacity of up to 105 individuals. This makes it suitable for large family reunions, organizational events, or large gatherings of friends.

• Outhouse Facilities: The campsite is equipped with outhouse facilities for restroom needs. It is important for groups to be prepared for the nature of these facilities, as they can sometimes require more active management for cleanliness, especially with high usage.

• Access to Park Amenities: While specific services directly at the group camp might be basic, being part of William O'Brien State Park provides groups with access to the park's broader amenities. This includes potential access to a swimming beach, lake and river fishing opportunities, a boat launching ramp, and canoe rentals during the summer. Campers can also purchase firewood and ice at the park office, which is essential for a complete camping experience.

• Recreational Facilities: The park generally offers picnic grounds with numerous tables and picnic shelters, which can be utilized by groups staying at Wedge Hill. There are also opportunities for various recreational games and activities throughout the broader park area.

Wedge Hill Group Camp, being part of William O'Brien State Park, offers several notable features and highlights for group enjoyment.

• Dedicated Group Space: The primary highlight is its designation as a group camp, specifically designed to accommodate large numbers of people. This means the infrastructure and space are intended for collective use, facilitating shared activities and experiences.

• Access to Extensive Trail System: The camp's location within William O'Brien State Park grants groups immediate access to over 12 miles of hiking trails. These trails traverse diverse landscapes, including savannas, woodlands, and areas near the St. Croix River, providing ample opportunity for group hikes, nature walks, and exploration.

• Scenic Natural Environment: The overall setting within William O'Brien State Park is a significant feature. The park is known for its beautiful scenery, including the St. Croix River, forests, and prairies. Groups can enjoy the natural beauty, observe local wildlife, and experience the tranquility of the Minnesota outdoors.

• Activities within William O'Brien State Park: Beyond hiking, the park offers a variety of activities that groups can engage in, such as swimming at the beach, fishing in the lake or river, and canoeing or kayaking (rentals available). The park also offers year-round interpretive programs, which can be an educational and engaging activity for groups.

• Proximity to Historical and Natural Sites: Wedge Hill itself has historical significance, being part of a landscape shaped by glacial activity and once a farm. Groups interested in the natural and cultural history of the area can explore these aspects within the park. Additionally, the proximity to the St. Croix River adds to the natural appeal.

For inquiries, reservations, or to gather more specific details about Wedge Hill Group Camp, please use the following contact information for William O'Brien State Park, as the group camp is managed as part of the park's facilities:

Address: William O'Brien State Park, 16821 O'Brien Trail North, Marine on St. Croix, MN 55047, USA (Note: While Wedge Hill Group Camp is in Scandia, the main park office mailing address is Marine on St. Croix, which is the operational hub for the park.)

Phone: (651) 539-4980

It is highly recommended to contact the park directly to confirm availability, make reservations, and inquire about specific rules and guidelines for group camping, especially regarding noise policies and facility usage. Group camps often have specific booking procedures separate from individual campsites.

Wedge Hill Group Camp offers a specific and tailored experience that can be highly suitable for local Minnesotans, particularly those planning large group outings. Its location within the beloved William O'Brien State Park means it's an easily accessible destination from across the state, especially the major population centers, reducing travel time and making it convenient for numerous attendees to gather. For local organizations, schools, extended families, or large friend groups, having a dedicated space that can accommodate up to 105 people is a significant advantage, eliminating the logistical challenges of reserving multiple smaller sites.

While the group camp environment may not offer the same level of individual privacy as secluded single campsites, it excels at fostering a communal and interactive outdoor experience. The proximity to extensive hiking trails, the St. Croix River, and other park amenities like swimming and fishing provides a rich backdrop for group activities and shared adventures. Being part of a state park also implies a level of oversight and basic facilities, which, while sometimes requiring personal preparation for comfort (such as managing outhouse cleanliness), ensures a structured environment. For Minnesotans looking to host a memorable outdoor gathering, where the emphasis is on collective enjoyment, shared experiences, and convenient access to a wealth of natural activities within a well-known state park, Wedge Hill Group Camp presents a viable option. It's a place where large groups can connect with nature and each other, creating lasting memories in the beautiful Minnesota landscape.

Wedge Hill Group Camp

66CH+J3, Scandia, MN 55047, USA